Parts for your 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander-Strut mounts

2005 Mitsubishi Outlander strut mounts — what they do and when to replace them

Technical sources confirm the 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander runs MacPherson struts up front with dedicated strut mounts, while the rear uses a multi-link layout with separate springs and shocks (no rear strut mounts). This is shown in the Mitsubishi Workshop Manual (Group 33A – Front Suspension) and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue, which list the front strut mounting insulator and bearing as service parts for CU2W/CU5W models.

On the front of a 2005 Outlander, the strut mount sits at the top of the strut and bolts to the body. It does two big jobs: it isolates vibration and road harshness with a rubber insulator, and it lets the strut rotate smoothly for steering via an integrated bearing. In short, it keeps things quiet and tight while allowing the front suspension to steer and move without binding.

As they age, strut mounts can harden, crack, or the bearing can get gritty. That’s when drivers might notice clunks over speed humps, creaks when turning, a notchy steering feel, or vague steering return-to-centre. In some cases you’ll see uneven tyre wear because the top of the strut isn’t locating consistently under load.

Good practice on a 2005 Outlander is to inspect the front strut mounts any time the struts are out, and at regular service intervals if there are noises from the towers. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions—heat, corrugations, and the odd gravel road—many owners find they’re due somewhere around 80,000–120,000 km, though some last longer. If the struts are being replaced, it’s smart to fit fresh mounts and bearings at the same time to avoid doubling up on labour.

Replacement tips a workshop will follow: always do front mounts in pairs, use quality OE-spec parts, torque everything to factory spec, and book a wheel alignment afterwards because the strut comes out of the knuckle. While in there, it’s worth checking the strut bearings, bump stops, dust boots, spring seats, and sway bar links for wear. There’s no real “maintenance” item for strut mounts beyond keeping an ear out for new noises and getting them checked promptly—leaving a failed mount can let the top of the strut hammer the tower and upset alignment.

• Common symptoms: clunks/creaks, notchy steering, uneven tyre wear, wandering feel.
• Best time to replace: with new struts or when noise/play is found.
• Post-repair must-do: wheel alignment.

Popular questions about 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander strut mounts

Do 2005 Outlanders have strut mounts front and rear?
Yes up front, no at the rear. The front is MacPherson strut with a dedicated top mount and bearing. The rear is a multi-link arrangement with separate spring and shock, so there’s no rear strut mount to service.

How long do strut mounts last on a 2005 Outlander?
Many last 80,000–120,000 km in local conditions, but life varies with roads, load, and climate. If the struts are due, fitting new mounts and bearings at the same time is a tidy, cost‑effective move that keeps noises at bay and steering feel crisp.

Can worn strut mounts cause steering noise or vibration?
They can. A tired bearing or cracked insulator can cause creaks on turn, clunks over bumps, and a sticky on‑centre feel. You might also feel vibration through the wheel on rough surfaces. An inspection under the bonnet at the strut towers usually spots play or perished rubber quickly.